In a landmark move towards digital transformation, East African countries are set to launch a regional alliance in 2025, aimed at advancing digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI) research, and innovation. The initiative, discussed during a workshop on August 12, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania, marks a significant step in the region’s technological development efforts.
The workshop, organised by the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA) in collaboration with the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and supported by GIZ through the EAC Digital Skills for an Innovative Industry project (dSkills@EA), convened representatives from academia, the private sector, civil society, and East African states. Together, they worked on the framework for the East African Digital Skills, AI Research, and Innovation Alliance.
This initiative responds to directives from the EAC Sectoral Council of Education, Science and Technology, Culture and Sports (SCESTCS), which stressed the need for a regional digital skills alliance. Dr Irene Isaka, EAC Secretariat Director of Social Sectors, highlighted the importance of this alliance, stating that it would pave the way for harmonized adoption of emerging technologies, driving sustainable development across sectors like health, services, and industries.
The alliance will officially launch in early 2025, with endorsements from EAC Education Ministers and active collaboration between IUCEA, EASTECO, and the East African Business Council. The initiative aims to bridge the region’s digital skills gap and equip East Africa for a tech-driven future.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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